By Milcah Tanimu

During the ongoing All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu explained that kidnapping has replaced armed robbery in Nigeria due to the decreasing use of cash. Speaking at the conference’s second day, Ribadu highlighted the nation’s security challenges, including Boko Haram, banditry, Niger Delta, and South East unrest. He urged against allowing insecurity to persist, emphasizing that it could have destructive consequences. Ribadu noted the shift from armed robbery to kidnapping, attributing it to people’s reduced reliance on cash. He also mentioned ongoing efforts by the Bola Tinubu administration to address insecurity, calling for support from the media and advocating for an open and transparent government. Meanwhile, incidents of banditry and kidnappings continue to plague certain regions in Nigeria, prompting the Senate to summon top security officials for a crucial meeting to address the nation’s security concerns.